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Achilles Tendon Ruptures: Cause, Diagnosis, Treatment

Part 3

Achilles Tendon Ruptures: Diagnosis and Care

Imaging studies are rarely needed, and a physician or orthopedic specialist can make the diagnosis with a good physical examination. The Thompson test, (Squeeze Test, lying on your belly and squeezing the calf muscles) is positive for a rupture if the foot does not point and differentiates foot/toe pointing from the other muscles that help with this motion. When there is a great deal of swelling and some ability to point, imaging studies can further define the full extent of the injury and identify which tissues are involved.